Contraception in Drug-Dependent Women: A Novel Approach

Abstract

The goal for providers treating drug-dependent women is to break the cycle of addiction, poverty, and disability. The provision of contraceptive care within nontraditional care settings may provide such an opportunity. The Family Planning Initiative was a four-year project (2005–2009) that delivered contraceptive services to women within a pediatric clinic within a drug treatment facility. The program consisted of group and individual sessions ante- and post-partum that reviewed contraceptive choices and addressed barriers to care. This program demonstrated the clinical and cost effectiveness of integrated, accessible, and continuous health care for this vulnerable population. Health care providers should consider the institution of family planning services into nontraditional health care settings, which requires the extension of traditional health care boundaries, in the provision of comprehensive care that addresses critical population needs.